Edifier R1280T vs. MartinLogan Motion 35XTi

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MSRP
$120 $1500
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
13.50” × 7.60” × 11.80”
343mm × 193mm × 300mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 50-25,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of bookshelf speakers, the Edifier R1280T offers a wallet-friendly entry point with a warm, pleasant sound signature, suitable for casual listeners. They are self-powered for convenience, featuring multiple inputs and straightforward controls. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi stands in the higher-end spectrum, boasting exquisite audiophile-grade clarity and detail, thanks to its signature Folded Motion tweeter. The Motion 35XTi demands a separate amplifier but rewards with room-filling sound and a broad soundstage. Choosing between the two boils down to budget, space, and the level of sonic refinement desired.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to outfitting a personal audio sanctuary, the journey often begins at the confluence of budget and performance. In the realm of bookshelf speakers, the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speakers stand as two compelling landmarks, offering distinct experiences for the discerning audiophile. Edifier's R1280T, revered for its cost-effectiveness and versatility, provides a straightforward entry into the world of enhanced audio. In contrast, the Motion 35XTi by MartinLogan strides confidently into the high-end segment, promising an audiophile experience that is as sumptuous as it is precise.

The Affordability Versus Premium Quality

The Edifier R1280T speakers represent an affordable option for those taking their first foray into serious sound. At a price point that is often seen as a mere fraction of high-end bookshelf speaker systems, these speakers deliver a sound that punches well above their weight. The Motion 35XTi, however, is a different beast altogether. With a price tag that is indicative of its premium standing, these speakers cater to the more seasoned audio enthusiast who is willing to invest in superior sound craftsmanship.

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T arrow (at Amazon.com)

Design and Build: Aesthetics Meet Engineering

From a design perspective, the Edifier R1280T is modest yet elegant, featuring a classic wood grain finish that blends with a variety of decors. They are unassuming, yet aesthetic enough to not go unnoticed. The MartinLogan Motion 35XTi, however, are a visual and technical tour de force, flaunting a sleek, modern design. Incorporating MartinLogan's signature perforated steel grilles and advanced materials, these speakers make a statement in any room. More than just a pretty face, the Motion 35XTi's build quality is an indication of the meticulous engineering that underpins MartinLogan's reputation.

Sound Performance: Clarity, Detail, and Power

When it comes to sound, the R1280T offers an impressive level of clarity and fullness given their humble position. Equipped with a 4-inch bass driver and a calibrated, flared bass reflex port, these speakers manage to deliver rich lows and clear highs that are surprising for their size and price. The Motion 35XTi, on the other hand, takes listeners on a journey that's defined by its Folded Motion Tweeters and powerful bass response. These speakers excel in delivering an astonishingly transparent midrange, with a high-frequency detail that can unveil the nuances in every track.

MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi arrow (at Amazon.com)

The R1280T is well-suited for casual listening environments where space might be limited, and the listener is looking for good performance without the complexity of an external amplifier. Being powered speakers, they offer a plug-and-play solution with multiple inputs that accommodate most audio sources. On the other side of the spectrum, the Motion 35XTi demands more from its setup. Requiring a separate amplifier and careful placement to truly shine, they are designed for the audiophile who savors the ritual of listening as much as the experience of sound itself.

In dissecting the soundstage, the Edifier R1280T performs admirably. They offer a sense of space that is commendable, creating an inviting atmosphere for the listener. Conversely, the Motion 35XTi's soundstage is nothing short of expansive. The precision with which these speakers place instruments and vocals in a three-dimensional space is a testament to MartinLogan's acoustic engineering prowess. The 35XTi's can transform a room into a concert hall, revealing layers and depths in recordings that may have been previously unnoticed.

Conclusively, while the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers are an excellent choice for those entering the world of high-quality audio without breaking the bank, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speakers are crafted for the audiophile who seeks an unrivaled sonic experience. Both speakers stand proudly at their respective price points and target audiences, each with a unique set of strengths that cater to different facets of the audio enthusiast community. Whether it’s the value-driven performance of the Edifiers or the exquisite sonic refinement of the MartinLogans, the journey towards audio nirvana is rich with possibility.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.